From the furry side

“puppy crack”
4/22/2010 11:38:01 AM by: Elsi

I'm currently struggling through Sallie's third try at Intermediate Obedience Class at PetSmart. She is smart enough, but sees no benefit to herself in walking on a loose leash (for example), when there are so many wonderful smells to pursue! Yanking at her collar just makes her yank back, and makes my hip ache for hours. Yelling at her doesn't make an impression when she's on the trail of a bunny or another dog. Explanations get me nowhere. Sigh.
So I'm using a potent puppy food—known by the employees as "puppy crack"—for a positive reinforcer. Just got the hint to try this on Monday, and haven't managed a walkie till today (too busy, too tired ... no wonder the dog doesn't learn, eh?). She now has the system, after one half-hour walk! She pulls; I say "UH UH!" and "LEAVE IT." If she turns to face me, she gets a bite of "crack." This is a good deal for both of us!
Of course, she won't retain the lesson, when next we walk. But if I'm consistent, pair verbal praise with tangible reinforcement, and get my feet out on the sidewalk every day no matter how I feel ... I think we may conquer this!